Merck - The drug maker sees first quarter non-GAAP earnings at $0.95 vs. $0.98 per share, versus Street estimates of $1.01, though it's reaffirming prior full year guidance of $3.75 - $3.85. The Dow component says currency will have a 1-2% unfavorable impact during the first quarter.

Qualcomm - The telecom equipment maker has raised its quarterly dividend to 25 cents per share from 21.5 cents, an increase of 16%, and announced a $4 billion stock buyback program.

Chesapeake Energy , KKR - The two will form a joint energy partnership, putting in $250 million as an initial investment to invest in U.S.-based oil and gas interests.

Applied Materials - The maker of semiconductor manufacturing equipment is increasing its quarterly dividend by 13% to 9 cents per share, and announcing a $3 billion stock buyback.

AMR – The company’s American Airlines unit – currently operating under bankruptcy protection - announced that February passenger traffic rose 6% in February compared to a year earlier.

Skullcandy – The maker of lifestyle audio equipment says Chief Financial Officer Mitch Edwards is resigning to pursue other interests, though he’ll stay on the job until April 1 and plans to remain available for consulting.